Mark Wiens Abroad in Paris: 8 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Paris

Must-try foods in Paris

• Escargot à la Bourguignonne
  Escargot à la BourguignonneA timeless bistro classic consisting of land snails cooked in a rich, vibrant green sauce of garlic, parsley, and butter. In 2026, they remain a top-searched delicacy, traditionally served in their shells with special tongs and small forks.
• Croissant au Beurre
  Croissant au BeurreThe gold standard of French viennoiserie. For 2026, locals and experts point to award-winning bakeries like 'La Parisienne' or 'Du Pain et des Idées' for the perfect balance of a shatteringly crisp exterior and a soft, honeycomb-textured, buttery interior.
• Soupe à l’Oignon Parisienne
  Soupe à l’Oignon ParisienneA deep, savory onion broth made with caramelized onions and beef stock, topped with a thick slice of toasted bread and a generous layer of melted Comté or Gruyère cheese, then gratinéed until golden and bubbling.
• Steak Frites with Sauce au Poivre
  Steak Frites with Sauce au PoivreThe ultimate brasserie staple. While the cut varies from entrecôte to flank, it is defined by the quality of the hand-cut fries and the peppery cream sauce. Hotspots like 'Paul Bert' are currently trending for having some of the best fries in the city.
• Pistachio-Chocolate Escargot Pastry
  Pistachio-Chocolate Escargot PastryA signature 'interesting' food from the famous 'Du Pain et des Idées.' This spiral-shaped pastry (named for its shape, not the snail) features a buttery dough filled with pistachio cream and chocolate chips, frequently cited by locals as a must-try.
• Oeufs Mayo (Deviled Eggs)
  Oeufs Mayo (Deviled Eggs)Once a humble starter, this dish has seen a massive resurgence in 2026. Top bistros like 'Grande Brasserie' compete for the 'best in the world' title, serving perfectly boiled eggs with a creamy, house-made mustard-heavy mayonnaise.

Trip guide

• About Paris
  About ParisParis, the capital of France, is a city with a documented history spanning over 2,000 years. Originally settled by the Parisii tribe around 250–225 BC, it became the Roman garrison town of Lutetia in 52 BC and was established as the Frankish capital by Clovis I in 508 AD. Historical Heritage and Architecture The city serves as a record of diverse architectural movements.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Paris is during the late spring (May to June) or early fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city’s parks are in full bloom or vibrant autumn color. While summer offers the warmest temperatures, it coincides with peak tourist crowds and high prices, whereas the winter "off-peak" season (November to March) provides the lowest rates and shortest lines despite the cold.
• Getting around
  Getting around Paris

  • International Air Travel (CDG & ORY) Most international visitors arrive via Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports, which are connected to the city center by the RER B train line, RoissyBus, or official taxi ranks.
  • Paris Métro and RER Network The city features an extensive underground rail system with 16 lines and regional RER trains, providing rapid access to every neighborhood and major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre.
  • Eurostar and High-Speed Rail (TGV) Paris is a major European rail hub, with Gare du Nord serving Eurostar trains from London and various other stations connecting to domestic and international destinations via high-speed TGV lines.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always initiate every interaction in shops, restaurants, or elevators with a polite 'Bonjour' to avoid being perceived as rude.
  • Request the check ('l'addition, s'il vous plaît') when you are ready to leave, as French servers will not bring it to your table unprompted.
  • Keep your voice at a low volume in public spaces, restaurants, and on the Métro to respect the local preference for quiet social environments.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Paris

  • The reopening of the Grand Palais, hosting major 2026 retrospectives for artists like Hilma af Klint and Henri Matisse.
  • The transformation of the legendary Bus Palladium into a rock-and-roll themed 5-star hotel and performance venue.
• Visit Paris Region↗
  Visit Paris RegionThe official tourism website for Paris and the Île-de-France region, providing travel guides, event information, and visitor services.